AN insight into Liverpool's Champions League Group One opponents.

Back in the Champions' League after a year's absence, the Spanish Champions can't be underestimated.

Liverpool overcame them in the UEFA Cup in 1998, but at some cost. Steve McManaman and Paul Ince were sent off in a 2-2 in Spain after a goalless first leg at Anfield. Valencia's Amedeo Carboni, who also saw red, is still at the club. Among their striking threats is giant Norwegian John Carew.

Their midfield is their key though with such talented players as Argentinian World Cup ace Pablo Aimar and Spanish workhorse Rubens Baraja working in tandem.

Spartak Moscow

Liverpool were comfortably defeated by

Spartak Moscow in the 1993 Cup Winners Cup. The 2-0 loss at Anfield was the Reds' heaviest home defeat in Europe at the time.

Spartak have dominated Russian football for the last 10 years, winning eight titles in that time. Comfortably the strongest club in the region, playing them is a bit like meeting the Russian national team.

Euopean venues are notoriously difficult to play in, although Liverpool's experience in Kiev last season should hold them in good stead for their trip on October 22. Star man is Igor Titov.

FC BASLE

Celtic's conquerors are somewhat of an unknown quantity. Managed by former Spurs boss Christian Gross, the Swiss side won their domestic title for the first time in 20 years last season.

One of the club's most famous ever players is Bayern Munich coach Otmar Hitzfeld.

Star striker Hakan Yakin will be the danger man. He was crucial to Celtic's downfall.

No doubt Gerard Houllier will be hoping Stephane Henchoz can supply his scouts with a lowdown on the Swiss side's qualities.